House Bill No. 949, introduced by Representative Coates, seeks to amend and reenact various provisions related to the Louisiana State Radiologic Technology Board of Examiners. The bill expands the board's responsibilities to include examining, licensing, and issuing permits for a wider range of professionals, such as radiologic technologists, nuclear medicine technologists, radiation therapy technologists, fusion technologists, limited purpose permit holders, and radiologist assistants. It introduces new definitions for "limited purpose permit" and "radiologist assistant," detailing the qualifications and duties associated with these roles. The bill also emphasizes the board's authority to establish a code of ethics and continuing education requirements for licensees and permit holders, while outlining specific qualifications for applicants, including the requirement for radiologist assistants to hold current certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

Additionally, the legislation includes provisions that prohibit the board from expanding the scope of practice for radiologist assistants or limited purpose permit holders beyond what is authorized in the bill. It establishes a detailed fee structure for licensing and permit-related activities, ensuring that fees collected support the board's functions. The bill also modifies existing laws regarding the discipline of licensees and permit holders, extending disciplinary actions to those who assist unlicensed individuals in regulated activities or violate the scope of practice. Furthermore, it repeals certain provisions related to clinical experience requirements for national certification and the issuance of licenses without examination for a limited time, streamlining the regulatory framework for radiologic technology in Louisiana while enhancing public safety and professional standards.

Statutes affected:
HB949 Original: 37:3207(A)(2), 37:3208(A), 37:3219(A)(1), 37:3210(B)
HB949 Engrossed: 37:3207(A)(2), 37:3208(A), 37:3219(A)(1), 37:3210(B)